Chandipura Virus Outbreak: Rare Infection Claims Lives of Children in Gujarat and Rajasthan

Health authorities in Gujarat and Rajasthan have intensified surveillance following the deaths of two children in Rajasthan and multiple laboratory-confirmed cases of Chandipura virus in Gujarat. The outbreak has brought attention to a rare virus that primarily affects children and has a high mortality rate.

As of July 24, nine confirmed deaths from Chandipura virus (CHPV) have been reported in the current outbreak — seven in Gujarat and two in Rajasthan. The virus causes acute encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, and can progress rapidly.

Chandipura virus was first isolated in 1965 during an investigation of a dengue and chikungunya outbreak in Chandipura, a village in northern Maharashtra. It belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, which also includes the rabies virus. The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies, particularly Phlebotomine sandflies and Phlebotomus papatasi, and some mosquito species such as Aedes aegypti, which also spreads dengue.

The virus resides in the salivary glands of these insects and enters the human body through a bite. Once inside, it can reach the central nervous system, leading to encephalitis. Initial symptoms resemble the flu: sudden fever, body ache, and headache. The infection can then progress to altered mental state, seizures, and encephalitis. Other symptoms reported in Indian studies include respiratory distress, bleeding tendencies, and anaemia. The disease can be fatal within 24 to 48 hours of hospitalisation, especially in children under 15 years, who are most susceptible.

Health departments are urging vigilance and prompt medical attention for children presenting with fever and neurological symptoms. Preventive measures include avoiding sandfly and mosquito bites through insect repellents, bed nets, and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

Chandipura virus is considered an emerging pathogen, with sporadic outbreaks reported in India, particularly in western and central regions. The recent cases highlight the need for continued surveillance and research into the virus, which remains poorly understood.